Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce

If you love a rich, hearty meat sauce but don’t always have hours to stand over the stove top, this Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce is going to be a game changer. It brings together all the flavors of a classic Italian meat sauce in a fraction of the time using your pressure cooker. This recipe is packed with ground beef, tomatoes, and just the right blend of seasonings for a comforting dinner the whole family will enjoy. Whether you serve it over your favorite pasta, spaghetti squash, or zucchini noodles, it’s a meal that always hits the spot. The best part is how easy it is to make with simple steps and big flavor in every bite.

Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce in a bowl with pasta

Why did I get a burn notice on my Instant Pot?

This usually happens if the tomatoes are mixed in before pressure cooking or if there isn’t enough liquid at the bottom of the pot.

Can I use white wine instead of red wine?

Yes, white wine works, but red wine gives a deeper flavor that’s closer to a traditional bolognese recipe.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Just skip the half and half or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Email Me This Recipe!

Need to save time? Have this article emailed straight to your inbox + sign up for all the latest recipes!

Ingredient Notes

ingredients for Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables for a flavorful base.
Yellow Onion: Brings a mild sweetness that builds the foundation of this pasta sauce.
Celery: Adds subtle texture and depth to the sauce.
Carrot: Balances acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
Garlic Cloves: Boosts the overall flavor with that classic Italian taste.
Tomato Paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
Lean Ground Beef: The main protein that creates a hearty meat sauce.
Crushed Tomatoes: Gives the sauce its rich, smooth base.
Water or Beef Broth: Helps prevent the burn notice and adds moisture for pressure cooking.
Dry Red Wine: Adds depth of flavor and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Half and Half: Creates a creamy finish and smooth texture.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Black Pepper: Adds a little warmth and spice.
Dried Oregano: Classic herb for a traditional bolognese sauce.
Dried Thyme: Adds earthy flavor notes.
Bay Leaves: Infuses the sauce with a subtle, slow-cooked flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle kick.

Turn your instant pot onto the SAUTE function. Brown your meat and then drain the grease. Put meat aside in a bowl.
Add olive oil and saute the veggies and garlic till they are soft.
Add the meat back in and add the spices, water/broth, and wine. Combine all of these ingredients together and simmer for a minute.
Press the CANCEL button. Then add the tomatoes and tomato paste on top of the meat and veggies but (DO NOT MIX). Place the top of your instant pot on and make sure the valve is in the sealed position. Press the PRESSURE COOK button and cook on high for 30 minutes. Once it is done, all a 10 minute natural release and then do a quick release for the remaining steam.
Open the lid and flip on the SAUTE function again. Add in your half and half and stir. Allow to simmer for a few minutes while stirring frequently to incorporate it all together.
While your sauce is cooking, prepare your desired pasta. Serve sauce over pasta and enjoy!